Trump Weighs in After Matt Gaetz Bites the Dust in Bid to Become AG: He ‘Has a Wonderful Future’

President Donald Trump wears a red hat as he stands on the field before the Army-Navy college football game in Philadelphia, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

President-elect Donald Trump shared his thoughts moments after former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) withdrew himself as his nominee to lead the Department of Justice.

On Thursday, the former Florida lawmaker withdrew his nomination as attorney general for Trump’s incoming administration. Gaetz faced an uphill battle from the start due to a House Ethics Committee investigation into him over allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor.

“I greatly appreciate the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General,” Trump said in a statement on Truth Social. “He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect. Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!”

Earlier this week, Gaetz held closed-door meetings with Republican Senators where he vowed to not target Trump’s political enemies, including retired health expert Dr. Anthony Fauci.

“President Trump remains committed to choosing a leader for the Department of Justice who will strongly defend the Constitution and end the weaponization of our justice system,” said Karoline Leavitt, Trump-Vance Transition spokeswoman in a statement to Mediaite. “President Trump will announce his new decision when it is made.”

This story is currently developing. Diana Falzone contributed reporting.